Our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Endodontic FAQs

At Contemporary Endodontics, our Team of Endodontists have prepared answers to some Endodontic FAQs to help assist you. If you have any questions that we have not answered below, then please take a moment to contact us and our friendly team will happily answer any Endodontic FAQs you may have.

What Is Endodontics?

Endodontics is a specialty branch of dentistry recognized by the American Dental Association involving treatment of the pulp (root canal) and surrounding tissues of the tooth. When you look at your tooth in the mirror, what you see is the crown. The rest of the tooth, the portion is hidden beneath the gum line, is called the root. Though the outer portion of the root is a hard tissue called dentin, the inside channel or “root canal” contains soft tissue, blood vessels, and nerves. Bacteria that are introduced into the pulp as a result of tooth decay, periodontal disease, tooth fracture or other problems, can severely damage the pulp. When that happens, an endodontic specialist removes the diseased pulp to save the tooth and prevent further infection and inflammation. After successful endodontic treatment, the tooth continues to continues to function normally.

I’m worried About X-Rays. Should I Be?

While x-rays will be necessary during your root canal treatment, we use an advanced non-film computerized system, called digital radiography, which reduces radiation levels up to 90% lower when compared to already low-dose conventional dental x-ray machinery. These digital images can be optimized, archived, printed and sent to co-clinicians via e-mail or disk.

What About Infection?

Again, there’s no need for concern. We adhere to the most rigorous standards of infection control advocated by OSHA, the Centers for Disease Control and the American Dental Association. We utilize autoclave sterilization and barrier techniques to eliminate any risk of infection.

What Happens After Treatment?

When your root canal therapy has been completed, a record of your treatment will be sent to your general dentist. You should contact their office for a follow-up restoration within a few weeks of completion at Contemporary Endodontics. Your dentist will decide on what type of restoration is necessary to protect your tooth. It is rare for endodontic patients to experience complications after routine endodontic treatment or microsurgery. If a problem does occur, however, we are available at all times to respond.

What new technologies are being used?

  • Operating Microscopes: In addition to digital radiography, we utilize special operating microscopes. Magnification and fiber optic illumination are helpful in aiding the doctor to see tiny details inside your tooth. Also, both video and still cameras on the operating microscope can record images of your tooth to further document the procedure and the doctor’s findings. Surgical microscopes are fast becoming the standard of care in the field of Endodontics.
  • Apex Locators: An electronic apex locator is an electronic device used in endodontics to determine the position of the apical foramen and thus determine the length of the root canal space.
  • Ultrasonics: Since 1958 the use of ultrasonic technology has played a vital role in preventative, restorative, and surgical, dental procedures. It was not until the 1990s that this technology was incorporated in a variety of endodontic applications such as, finding and accessing calcified canals, access enhancement, removal of intra-canal obstructions (e.g. posts, separated instruments, pulp stones), irrigation, and most well-known, root endo surgical preparations.

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If you have questions about root canal treatment, we invite you to contact our office.